The SkyEdge 2-c system employs an array of new features and capabilities, including: TotalNMS, a web-based network management system for small and large networks, as well as customized capabilities for Service Providers, ISPs and VNOs; Fair Use System (FUS), which delivers Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and configurable usage plans per network and per ISP; Multi-tiered acceleration and compression for web surfing and application response using TCP Acceleration; Rich IPv6 Stack; and a do-it-yourself Ka-band VSAT installation kit.

   Gilat’s Head of VSAT Business Hagay Katz explained that the company’s SkyEdge II-c scalable architecture enables operators to start small and expand as demand grows, while delivering business flexibility and the ability to provide customized and competitive Internet broadband services.

   “It’s never been easier to offer your customers the right Internet service plans and bandwidth usage levels to fit their needs,” said Katz. “Our new SkyEdge 2-c platform dramatically simplifies your network operations and can now provide your ISPs and VNOs the business flexibility to deliver customized and competitive Internet plans and services. Compact, fully integrated, and easy to install, SkyEdge 2-c is the new simple in Internet connectivity.”

   Gilat Satellite Network CEO Erez Antebi said the company has recently been investing back into its business segments and its Ka-band and satellite-on-the-move initiatives. Gilat received its first Ka-band order from a larger European ISP after the late September launch of SES’ Astra 2F satellite, which will enable SES Broadband Services (SBBS) to deliver commercial Ka-band satellite broadband in Europe. The service commenced in early December. 

   “As part of the SBBS consumer rollout, we received our first order from a larger European ISP,” said Antebi. “The initial order is for several thousand self-installed customer premise equipment based on Gilat’s SkyEdge 2 Aries VSAT. The service aims to allow European households to access satellite Internet, video and Voice-over-IP services.”  

   Last year, the company took a considerable leap forward with its strategy by winning a contract with O3b Networks to develop and supply Ka-band infrastructure for O3b’s VSAT services in emerging markets. At the time, Antebi described the partnership with O3b as an exciting opportunity to advance his company’s strategic investment in Ka-band technology. “Gilat and O3b are jointly paving the way to the commercialization of the Ka-band as a strong alternative for fiber technology, predominantly in underserved regions.”